Editorial December 10, 1910 Issue

THE TRUE TEST

John B. Willis

In no respect, perhaps, do the judgments of men present more marked differences and contradictions, than in their estimates of what entitles individuals to the honor and praise of their fellows. History witnesses that distinction has been conferred by popular acclaim for a very great variety of reasons, some of which give proof that enthusiasm over a given accomplishment may make it easy to overlook the means by which it has been effected.

The glamour of the mere fact of success in one's undertakings may thus become a great temptation, and especially to the young and energetic as they enter upon business life, and one of the imperative demands which human welfare makes upon all parents and teachers is this, that they effect a life-impress of the truth that no achievement is worth while save that which is moral in its every factor, which is wrought in righteousness from start to finish, and that the value of the deed and the character of its doer are always determined by his fealty to this ethical requirement.

Individual so-called graces and virtues, the things that often characterize the popular man, the attractive personality,—these give no reliable evidence of genuine values. As cant is the semblance of saintliness, so pride and love of praise may clothe themselves in the grab of philanthropy, so that selfishness appears to men to be kindly and generous. Very much of that which makes for social standing and reputation is altogether too exterior, too separate from real selfhood to be a reliable witness as to virtue.

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